Knock-Knock Burglary Suspect Arrested Thanks To Observant Neighbor

On January 9, 2013, around 7:45 a.m., Long Beach Police Department officers were dispatched to the area of 68th Street and Lemon Avenue in response to suspicious individuals knocking on doors in the neighborhood. Thanks to a call from an alert resident and good police work, a 17 year-old female was located and arrested for residential burglary.

A neighbor noticed two subjects knocking on a neighbor’s door and thought it was suspicious because he knew no one was home and decided to call 9-1-1. The individuals fled before officers arrived.

Responding officers observed two subjects matching the description in an alley. A perimeter was set and further investigation revealed that a burglary had occurred in the 6800 block of Lemon Avenue.

With additional information from the caller, officers located a vehicle and a third suspect, a 17-year-old female from Long Beach. Two suspects remain outstanding. Most of the loss was recovered and returned to the victim.

The investigation is ongoing and police are asking residents in the surrounding neighborhoods to come forward if they have been victims of an unreported theft or residential burglary.

The Long Beach Police Department would like to remind residents of the following safety tips:

Meet your neighbors – This makes it easier to recognize a person that doesn’t belong in the neighborhood. Neighbors who communicate are more likely to look out for one another.

Report loiterers – Loitering is often a precursor activity for burglars, enabling them to case the area.

Keep windows, doors, and gates locked and secured at all times.

Ensure your house number is visible from the street. If appropriate, ensure your house number and street name are visible in the alley.

Keep porch lights on at night and install sensor lights, which activate as a person approaches.